Samuele's Podcast

In this last episode of the podcast, I take a moment to speak from the heart. Instead of diving into another topic, I wanted to close this journey by reflecting on the past six episodes and on everything I’ve shared with you.

I look back on what it’s really been like to live as a student-athlete in the United States, the daily routine, the pressure, the sacrifices, the growth, and the opportunities that changed my life. I revisit the lessons I talked about throughout the series: the mental battles, the importance of discipline, the value of the right environment, and the moments of doubt that shaped who I am today.

In this final chapter, I share my last pieces of advice for anyone chasing a dream, especially athletes who want to build their future through sport. I speak honestly about believing in yourself, taking risks even when you don’t feel ready, and trusting the journey even when it feels messy.

This podcast may end here, but my story doesn’t. If you want to keep following my life, my content, my journey in the U.S., and everything I’m building with Athlete Futuro, make sure to keep up with my Instagram stories and TikTok.

Thank you for listening, for supporting me, and for being part of this project. This episode is my way of closing the door, but also opening a new chapter.

In this second-to-last episode of the season, I look back on nearly four years of life as a student-athlete in the United States and share the biggest lessons I have learned on and off the field. From adapting to a new culture, to building discipline, to finding the right environment to grow, this episode offers an honest and practical look at what the student-athlete journey is really like.

I also open up about a personal turning point that changed the way I approached challenges, and he closes the episode with clear advice for athletes who dream of studying and competing in the U.S.

Whether you’re preparing for your own college journey or simply curious about life in American college sports, this episode delivers valuable insights, motivation, and a realistic view of the experience.

Don’t miss next week’s finale — it’s going to be special.

What happens after the final whistle of your college career? In this episode of Beyond The Pitch, Samuele opens up about the transition from being a student-athlete to building a new life beyond the game. He shares his personal story — from working and living independently at a young age, to getting a second chance through college soccer in the U.S., and the lessons that experience taught him about preparation and growth.

You’ll discover the many paths available after college soccer, from playing professionally to coaching, sports business, media, or entrepreneurship. Samuele also explains how to leverage your network, use your degree, and apply the discipline, teamwork, and mindset you’ve learned on the field to any career.

Whether you’re in college now or planning your next move, this episode will help you see that your soccer journey doesn’t end after graduation, it simply evolves into a new chapter.

Ever wondered what college coaches really look for when recruiting international players? In this solo episode, Samuele breaks down the key traits that make you stand out — on and off the field.

From technical and tactical qualities to academics, character, and communication, you’ll learn what separates serious recruits from the rest. Samuele also shares personal stories and insider tips on how to contact coaches, follow up professionally, and stay on their radar.

Whether you’re just starting your recruiting journey or already in contact with college programs, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to becoming the kind of player every coach wants on their team.

⚽️ You’ll learn:

• The technical and mental traits coaches value most.
• Common mistakes that can hurt your chances.
• How to communicate effectively with college programs.
• How to turn consistency and character into your biggest recruiting advantages.

👉 Follow @samueleselva_ and @athletefuturo for more insights on soccer scholarships and life as a student-athlete in the U.S.

Juggling classes, training, games, and recovery isn’t easy, but it is possible. In this episode, I share the real strategies that helped me balance academics and athletics as a college soccer player in the U.S.

You’ll learn practical time-management habits, how to use academic support systems effectively, and ways to protect your mental health through busy seasons. Plus, real stories of student-athletes who found success both on the field and in the classroom.

🎧 Whether you’re preparing for college soccer or already living the grind, this episode will help you stay organized, consistent, and mentally strong.

 Follow me @samueleselva_ and @athletefuturo for more tips on becoming a successful student-athlete.

In this episode, I share my personal journey from Italy to Florida — from training under the rain with no clear path, to earning a U.S. college soccer scholarship that changed my life. I break down every step of the process: creating a highlight reel, preparing academically, contacting coaches, and overcoming challenges like homesickness and cultural shock.

Whether you’re a young player dreaming of studying and playing abroad or just curious about how the U.S. college system works, this episode gives you a real look inside the journey, and the practical advice to start yours today.

“Picture this: you’re 17, lacing up your boots for another rainy practice in Italy. You’re talented, but the pressure is crushing—parents pushing school, scouts not calling, and you’re wondering if your dream is slipping away. 

I’ve been there. I’m Samuele, and leaving Italy for U.S. college soccer changed everything in my life—degrees earned, doors opened, and a whole new future. 

That’s why I created Beyond the Pitch—not just another sports show, but a roadmap for athletes chasing scholarships and opportunities through soccer. 

Every episode shares real stories, honest interviews, and practical steps to help you see that soccer can still transform your life—if you take the right shot.”